NEEDS ASSESSMENT AND GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPING THE ENTRY INTO ACADEMIC POSITIONS OF FACULTY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF PHAYAO

Abstract

This research aimed to: 1 examine the perception and understanding of the criteria and procedures for academic appointment among faculty members at the University of Phayao. 2 Investigate the current, expected, and required conditions for entry into academic positions among faculty members at the University of Phayao. 3) Explore guidelines for developing faculty entry into academic positions. The research was conducted in two parts. Part 1 employed a questionnaire survey. The sample consisted of 298 faculty members selected through stratified random sampling. The statistical methods used for data analysis included frequency, percentage, mean (), standard deviation (S.D.), and PNI_modified analysis. Part 2 involved in-depth interviews with six university administrators, selected through purposive sampling. The qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis.

The study revealed that: 1) faculty members at the University of Phayao demonstrated a high level of awareness and understanding regarding the criteria and procedures for appointment to academic positions. 2) The current conditions related to faculty entry into academic positions were rated at a high level, while the expected conditions were rated at the highest level. The most critical area of needs, as indicated by the PNI_modified index (0.35), was the academic working environment. 3) The guidelines for developing faculty entry into academic positions include strengthening internal motivation mechanisms and establishing systematic measures that encourage recognition of the true value of academic positions. These efforts should be accompanied by clearer and more flexible criteria and processes, as well as increased funding support for research dissemination and international networking. In addition, establishing a formal and continuous mentoring system, promoting the sharing of good practices, and providing incentive awards for units that achieve their goals are recommended.